Examine the role of the federal government in preparing the West for American settlement.

The federal government played a significant role in preparing the West for American settlement through various policies and actions. One of the most notable ways was through the passage of the Homestead Act in 1862, which provided 160 acres of free land to settlers who agreed to improve the land by building a dwelling and cultivating crops. This encouraged thousands of Americans to move westward and establish farms and communities.

Additionally, the federal government invested in infrastructure development, such as the construction of railroads and telegraph lines, to connect the West with the rest of the country. This made it easier for settlers to travel to and from the region and facilitated the transportation of goods and resources.

The government also negotiated treaties with Native American tribes to acquire land for settlement, often through coercive or unfair means. This resulted in the displacement and marginalization of indigenous peoples, further opening up the West for American settlement.

Furthermore, the federal government provided military protection for settlers and established forts and outposts to maintain order and security in the region. This helped to mitigate conflicts with Native American tribes and other potential threats to the expansion of American settlement.

Overall, the federal government played a crucial role in preparing the West for American settlement by enacting policies, investing in infrastructure, acquiring land, and providing security for settlers. These actions were instrumental in shaping the development and expansion of the United States into the western frontier.